Dunkirk-Kids Movie Review

Dunkirk is a World War II film where Allied forces are surrounded and trapped on Dunkirk beach. A private English citizen named Mr. Dawson (Mark Rylance), his son Peter, and Peter’s friend George, volunteer to cross the channel and rescue as many soldiers as they can transport, hoping to rescue thousands of troops off Dunkirk’s beaches. The trio risk their lives to rescue the soldiers despite the danger in a war torn area. Dunkirk is a powerful story about the horror’s and heroes of this well known battle.

This is an educational film that will spark some great parent/child conversations. The battle at Dunkirk was devastating and resulted in many deaths. However, the films highlights the courage and heroism in many characters who risked their lives to help others.

A commander noted in the film that they were hoping to save 30,000 soldiers. When the operation concluded they rescued some 330,000 troops safely off the beaches.

Sexual Content: None

Violent/Disturbing Content: Excessive

There are numerous casualties from explosions and character’s being shot. We see characters drowning and swept to sea, soldiers burn in an oil fire, a character walks into the ocean, presumably committing suicide. Having said that we don’t see a lot of bloody and gory scenes.

Crude or Profane Language:

The f-word is said twice. We also hear “sh-t,” “d-mn,” and “h-ll.”

Drug and Alcohol Content: Mild

We see soldiers drinking beer.

Will Kids Like It? Maybe

After talking to several teens I found that mature teenagers will most likely find the story educational and interesting.

Overall parents need to aware of the mature subject matter and excessive violence.